CN108886858B

CN108886858B - Backup power and control of light sources in light fixtures

Info

Publication number: CN108886858B
Application number: CN201780019038.5A
Authority: CN
Inventors: 张慧
Original assignee: Eaton Intelligent Power Ltd
Current assignee: Eaton Intelligent Power Ltd
Priority date: 2016-02-18
Filing date: 2017-02-17
Publication date: 2021-02-02
Anticipated expiration: 2037-02-17
Also published as: US10306713B2; US20170245334A1; DE112017000481T5; MX2018009890A; WO2017143218A1; CN108886858A; CA3014905C; CA3014905A1

Abstract

A circuit for a light fixture may include a power supply that provides primary power. The circuit may also include a light module having at least one first light source coupled to the power supply, wherein the at least one light source emits light when the light module receives the primary power. The circuit may further include an energy storage unit having at least one energy storage device, wherein the at least one energy storage device is charged using the primary power. The at least one first light source may receive backup power from the energy storage unit when the power supply stops providing the main power.

Description

Backup power and control of light sources in light fixtures

Cross Reference to Related Applications

Priority of U.S. provisional patent application No. 62/296,782 entitled "backup Power and Control For Light Sources In Light fixtures" (Reserve Power and Control For Light Sources In a Light fix "), filed 2016, 2, 18, 35u.s.c. § 119, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

Technical Field

The present disclosure relates generally to lighting fixtures using Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs) as light sources, and more particularly to providing backup power and control for light sources within LED fixtures.

Background

In many applications, such as in the case of emergency exit lighting, the light source of the luminaire must remain illuminated even during a power outage. Typically, this emergency power is provided to the light source by an energy storage unit having at least one energy storage device (e.g., a battery) that is charged using the same power supply that supplies the light fixture.

Disclosure of Invention

In general, in one aspect, the present disclosure is directed to a circuit for a light fixture. The circuit may include a power supply providing primary power, wherein the power supply includes a rectifier. The circuit may also include a light module having at least one first light source and coupled to the power supply, wherein the at least one light source emits light when the light module receives primary power. The circuit may further include an energy storage unit having at least one energy storage device, wherein the at least one energy storage device is charged using the primary power. The at least one first light source may receive backup power from the energy storage unit when the power supply stops providing the main power.

In another aspect, the present disclosure may generally relate to a lighting circuit. The lighting circuit may include a power source that provides primary power. The lighting circuit may also include a drive circuit coupled to the power source, wherein the drive circuit receives the primary power and generates the primary power, wherein the drive circuit includes a rectifier. The lighting circuit may further comprise at least one array of light sources coupled to the drive circuit, wherein the at least one array of light sources comprises at least one first light source that emits light using the primary power received from the drive circuit. The lighting circuit may further comprise an energy storage unit electrically coupled in parallel with the at least one array of light sources, wherein the energy storage unit comprises at least one energy storage device, wherein the at least one energy storage device is charged using primary power. The at least one first light source array may receive backup power from the energy storage unit when the driving circuit stops providing the main power.

These and other aspects, objects, features and embodiments will be apparent from the following description and appended claims.

Drawings

The drawings depict only example embodiments of backup power and control of a light source of a light fixture and are not therefore to be considered limiting of its scope, as backup power and control of a light source of a light fixture may allow for other equally effective embodiments. The elements and features illustrated in the drawings are not necessarily to scale, emphasis instead being placed upon clearly illustrating the principles of the example embodiments. In addition, certain dimensions or locations may be exaggerated to help visually convey such principles. In the drawings, reference numerals designate similar or corresponding, but not necessarily identical, elements.

Fig. 1 shows a lighting circuit with an emergency battery pack as currently used in the prior art.

Fig. 2A illustrates a lighting circuit in accordance with one or more example embodiments.

Fig. 2B illustrates a system diagram of a controller for the lighting system of fig. 2A, according to some example embodiments.

Fig. 3-6 respectively illustrate lighting circuits according to one or more example embodiments.

FIG. 7 illustrates a computing device, according to some example embodiments.

Detailed Description

Example embodiments discussed herein are directed to systems, apparatuses, and methods for backup power and control of light sources in light fixtures. Although the light sources are described herein as Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs), one or more other types of light sources (e.g., incandescent, fluorescent, halogen, sodium vapor) may be used in example embodiments. Further, although example embodiments are directed to use with light fixtures, any other type of device including a light source may be used in example embodiments.

When the light sources described herein use LED technology, the light sources may include one or more of many different types of LED technology. For example, each LED light source (also referred to as an LED) may be packaged or fabricated on a printed circuit board and/or packaged or fabricated using chip-on-board (chip-on-board) technology. Further, the number of LEDs used in the various embodiments may be more or less than the number of LEDs in the example embodiments described herein. The number of LEDs used may depend on one or more of a number of factors, including (but not limited to): the voltage drop of the selected LED and the voltage level of the power supply voltage used (e.g., 120VAC, 240VAC, 277 VAC). One or more example embodiments may be used with a dimmable LED lighting circuit. The number of LEDs used in the luminaire may be related to the desired lumen output. Further, the number of LEDs that emit light using backup power (provided by an example energy storage unit, as described below) may be different than the number of LEDs that emit light using a power supply (also described below).

As described herein, a user may be any person interacting with an example lighting circuit. Examples of users may include (but are not limited to): customers, electricians, engineers, mechanics, instrumentation and control technicians, consultants, contractors, operators, and manufacturer representatives. One or more components may be omitted, added, repeated, and/or substituted for any of the figures shown and described herein. Thus, the embodiments shown in a particular figure should not be considered limited to the particular arrangement of components shown in that figure.

Further, if a component of a drawing is described but not explicitly shown or labeled in the drawing, a label for the corresponding component in another drawing may infer the component. Conversely, if a component in a figure is labeled but not described, the description of the component can be substantially the same as the description of the corresponding component in another figure. The numbering scheme for the various components in the figures herein is such that each component is a three or four digit number, while corresponding components in other figures have the same last two digit number.

In certain example embodiments, a system (or portion thereof) including example backup power and control of light sources in a luminaire described herein satisfies one or more of a number of standards, jurisdictions, codes, and/or other requirements established and maintained by one or more entities. Examples of such entities include, but are not limited to, the Underwriters' Laboratories (UL), the National Electrical Code (NEC), the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers; IEEE), and the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). For example, the wiring (the wires themselves and/or the mounting of the wires) that electrically couple the example energy storage cells (defined below) with the device or component may be of one or more standards set forth in the NEC. Specifically, NEC defines class 1 circuits and class 2 circuits according to various terms, depending on the application used. Example embodiments may be used in class 1 or class 2 circuits.

Example embodiments of backup power and control of light sources in a light fixture are described more fully below with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which example embodiments of backup power and control of light sources in a light fixture are shown. However, backup power and control of light sources in a light fixture may be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the example embodiments set forth herein. Rather, these example embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey the scope of backup power and control of light sources in light fixtures to those of ordinary skill in the art. For consistency, elements (also sometimes referred to as components) that are similar, but not necessarily identical, in the figures are identified by similar reference numerals.

Terms such as "first" and "second" are used only to distinguish one component (or a portion of a component or a state of a component) from another component. These terms are not meant to indicate a preference or particular orientation and are not intended to limit embodiments of backup power and control of light sources in a light fixture. In the following detailed description of example embodiments, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a more thorough understanding of the invention. It will be apparent, however, to one of ordinary skill in the art that the present invention may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known features have not been described in detail so as not to unnecessarily complicate the description.

Fig. 1 shows a lighting circuit 100 currently used in the prior art. The lighting circuit 100 of fig. 1 includes a power source 105, an energy storage unit 110 (also referred to as, for example, an emergency battery pack 110), a power supply 115, and a light module 129. The power supply 105 provides Alternating Current (AC) power. The power provided by the power source 105 may be referred to as primary power. The primary power provided by the power source 105 is sent to the energy storage unit 110 and the power supply 115, which are electrically connected in parallel with each other with respect to the power source 105. The primary power provided by the power supply 105 may have any voltage and/or current suitable for ultimately operating the light modules 129 of the lighting circuit 100. For example, power supply 105 may provide 120V, which is common in residential and commercial buildings_rms(root mean square) power supply. As another example, power supply 105 may provide 24V obtained through a transformer_rmsA power supply, the transformer converting voltage and providingAnd (4) isolating.

When the primary power provided by the power source 105 is interrupted, the energy storage unit 110 provides backup power to the light module 129. The energy storage unit 110 includes an AC-to-Direct Current (DC) converter, typically two DC-to-DC converters, one or more batteries, and a controller. An AC-DC converter needs to convert primary power into one type of power (DC). The first DC-DC converter is coupled to an output of the AC-DC converter and generates DC power usable by the battery. When the battery discharges power, the second DC-DC converter receives the power and converts it to backup power that can be used directly by the light module 129. The battery of the energy storage unit 110 receives the primary power supplied from the power source 105 (the primary power is received after the primary power passes through the AC-DC converter and the first DC-DC converter) and stores the power. The controller of the energy storage unit 110 determines when the backup power stored in the battery should be discharged (after passing through the second DC-DC converter) to the light module 129. Further details of the battery (also collectively referred to as an energy storage device) and controller are provided below with respect to fig. 2A through 7, as they apply to the example energy storage units described herein.

The power supply 115 receives the primary power provided by the power source 105 and changes (e.g., rectifies, transforms, converts, inverts) the characteristics (e.g., type, level) of the primary power to a primary power that can be used by the light module 129. In other words, the power supply 115 converts primary (AC) power to primary (DC) power, which is suitable for use by the light module 129. In many cases, power supply 115 is a full-wave rectifier that converts sinusoidal AC from power supply 105 to a rectified AC supply or DC supply having a constant polarity. The rectifier may also be a half-wave rectifier. The power supply 115 may be a configuration having a plurality of diodes (e.g., as shown in fig. 3), semiconductors, transformers, or any other suitable component or collection of components.

Fig. 2A illustrates a system diagram of a lighting circuit 200, according to some example embodiments. Fig. 2B illustrates a system diagram of a controller 224 for the energy storage unit 220 of fig. 2A, according to some example embodiments. Unlike the lighting circuit 100 of fig. 1, the lighting circuit 200 of fig. 2A has an energy storage unit 220 connected downstream of the rectifier 215. In other words, the energy storage unit 220 is charged using DC power, thereby eliminating the need for the energy storage unit 220 to include an energy transfer device (AC-DC converter in the prior art). The power source 205 and the rectifier 215 of fig. 2A may be substantially the same as the power source 105 and the power supply 115 of fig. 1. The primary power provided by the rectifier 215 is used by the light module 229.

Referring to fig. 1-2B, in some example embodiments, the light module 229 includes one or more of several arrays of light sources. For example, as shown in fig. 2A, the light module 229 has an array of light sources 230, an array of light sources 240, and an array of light sources 250. The light source array of the light module 229 of fig. 2A may comprise one or more individual light sources. For example, the light source array 230 of the light module 229 of fig. 2 may include a light source 231, a light source 232, a light source 233, and a light source 239. As another example, the light source array 240 of the light module 229 of fig. 2A may include

light sources

241 and 249. As another example, the light source array 250 of the light module 229 of fig. 2A may include the light sources 251.

When the light source array comprises a plurality of light sources, one light source within the light source array may be coupled in series and/or in parallel with the remaining light sources in the light source array. For example, the

light sources

231, 232, 233, and 239 of the light source array 230 in fig. 2A are arranged in series. Similarly, light source 241 and light source 249 of light source array 240 in fig. 2A are coupled in series. Additionally or alternatively, when the light module 229 includes multiple light source arrays, one light source array may be coupled in series and/or parallel with the other light source arrays. For example, as shown in fig. 2A, light source array 230, light source array 240, and light source array 250 are coupled in series.

The light source of the light module 229 may emit light when receiving primary power from the rectifier 215 or backup power from the energy storage unit 220. The light source may use or be any of a variety of lighting technologies including, but not limited to, light emitting diodes, halogen lamps, sodium vapor lamps, and incandescent lamps. Further, the light source may emit light in one or more of any number of colors, including, but not limited to, white, red, green, blue, violet, and yellow.

One or more of a plurality of other components may be coupled to each array of light sources within the light module. For example, as shown in the lighting circuit 200 of fig. 2A, each array of light sources is coupled to a diode, a capacitor, and a switch. Specifically, in this case, the light source array 230 is coupled in series with the diode 287 and in parallel with the switch 261 and the capacitor 271. Additionally, the array of light sources 240 is coupled in series with a diode 288 and in parallel with the switch 262 and the capacitor 272. Further, the light source array 250 is coupled in series with a diode 289 and in parallel with a switch 263 and a capacitor 273.

If the array of light sources is coupled to a switch, the switch may be used to electrically isolate the array of light sources from the rest of the light module 229 (when the switch is in one position (closed or open)) and/or to connect the array of light sources to the rest of the light module 229 (when the switch is in another position (open or closed)). The switch may be a semiconductor (e.g., a MOSFET) or any other suitable switching device. In many cases, the switch shown in fig. 2A operates within an extremely short time frame (e.g., one millisecond).

The lighting circuit 200 may also include one or more components coupled to the light module 229. For example, as shown in fig. 2A, the light module 229 may be coupled to a current regulator 280 that includes one or more of a plurality of components. In this case, the current regulator 280 includes a transistor 282, a control circuit 283, and a resistor 284. Further, at least a portion of the lighting circuit 200 may be coupled to an electrical ground 286. For example, the control circuit 283 and the resistor 284 of the current regulator 280 may be directly coupled to the electrical ground 286. The control circuit 283 may be or include one or more of an integrated circuit and/or a plurality of discrete components. The control circuit 283 is configured to control the transistor 282 based on the voltage across the resistor 284. By controlling transistor 282, control circuit 283 controls the amount of current flowing through light module 229. In some cases, control circuit 283 may control one or more switches (e.g., switch 261, switch 262, switch 263).

In some cases, rectifier 215, current regulator 280, switches (in this case, switch 261, switch 262, and switch 263), and capacitors (in this case, capacitor 271, capacitor 272, and capacitor 273) may be considered part of the drive circuit. As shown below, the lighting circuit may be devoid of some of these components (e.g., switches, capacitors, diodes). In either case, the drive circuit receives primary power from the power source 205, manipulates the primary power, and uses the generated primary power to illuminate and control the light module 229.

In certain example embodiments, the example energy storage unit 220 may be coupled in parallel with one or more (or portions thereof) of the plurality of light source arrays of the light module. For example, in this case, the energy storage unit 220 of fig. 2A is coupled in parallel with the light source array 240 of the light module 229. As discussed above, in certain example embodiments, the energy storage unit 220 includes one or more of a plurality of components. For example, as shown in fig. 2A, energy storage unit 220 may include at least one energy storage device 222, one or more switches (e.g., switch 294, switch 296), a DC-DC converter 291, a boost converter 292, one or more diodes 297, at least one controller 224, and at least one sensor device 226. Some or all of these components of the energy storage unit 220 may be located within an optional housing 295 of the energy storage unit 220.

The DC-DC converter 291 may be referred to by any of a number of other names, including but not limited to a non-isolated DC-DC constant voltage constant current converter 291 and a non-isolated charger stage 291. In this example, the DC-DC converter 291 manipulates (in this case converts) the DC main power received at terminal 298 to a voltage of the type (in this case DC) and level (e.g., 24V, 12V) used by the energy storage device 222. The DC-DC converter 291 of the energy storage unit 220 may include one or more of a number of single or multiple discrete components (e.g., transistors, diodes, resistors) and/or a microprocessor. The DC-DC converter 291 may include a printed circuit board on which the microprocessor and/or one or more discrete components are located.

Boost converter 292 may be referred to by any of a number of other names, including, but not limited to, a boost stage 292. In certain example embodiments, boost converter 292 manipulates (in this case boosts) the DC backup LV power released by energy storage device 222 to a voltage of the type (in this case DC) and level used by at least a portion of light module 229. The boost converter 292 may include one or more of a number of single or multiple discrete components (e.g., transistors, diodes, resistors) and/or a microprocessor. Boost converter 292 may include a printed circuit board on which the microprocessor and/or one or more discrete components are located.

In certain example embodiments, the energy storage unit 220 includes only a single converter, thereby merging the DC-DC converter 291 with the boost converter 292. In this case, the single DC-DC converter is bidirectional. In other words, the DC-DC converter may receive primary power from light module 229 and convert the primary power to a DC power level that may be stored by energy storage device 222. Additionally, the DC-DC converter may receive backup power stored in energy storage device 222 and convert the power to a DC backup power level that may be used by one or more portions of light module 229. The following fig. 6 shows another example in which the controller of the example energy storage unit has two DC-DC converters (DC-DC converter 691 and boost converter 692).

When energy storage device 222 requires charging, switch 294 is used to direct primary power (e.g., primary power received from a portion of light module 229) to energy storage device 222. The switch 294 may be any type of device (e.g., a transistor, a dipole switch, a relay contact) capable of opening and closing (changing state or changing position) based on certain conditions. For example, switch 294 may be closed when primary power is received at terminal 298, and may be opened when primary power is interrupted at input terminal 298. In some example embodiments, as shown in fig. 2A, the switch 294 may operate (e.g., change from a closed position to an open position, change from an open position to a closed position) based on input from the controller 224. As an example, for an initial period of time (e.g., until the energy storage device 222 is charged to a certain amount (e.g., 99%) of capacity), the switch 294 remains closed, and thereafter the switch 294 will change state (e.g., become open) until the storage level of the energy storage device 222 drops to a certain lower amount (e.g., 50%) of capacity, provided that primary power is still being transferred to the terminal 298 of the energy storage unit 220. As another example, the switch 294 may become (or remain) open whenever the delivery of primary power to the terminal 298 of the energy storage unit 220 is interrupted.

Energy storage device 222 may be one or more of any rechargeable device (e.g., battery, supercapacitor) configured to be charged using primary power. In some cases, one or more of energy storage devices 222 are charged using a different level and/or type of power than the level and type of primary power. In this case, as described below, energy storage unit 220 (or a portion thereof, such as controller 224) may include a DC-DC converter 291 to convert the primary power to a level of power for charging energy storage 222. Any number of energy storage devices 222 may be present in energy storage unit 220. Energy storage device 222 may use one or more of any number of storage technologies. Examples of such techniques may include, but are not limited to, nickel-cadmium, nickel-metal hydride, lithium-ion, and alkali.

The switch 296 may be used to control the flow of backup power released by the energy storage device 222 to the light module 229. In certain example embodiments, the switch 296 opens during certain times (e.g., when the light module 229 receives primary power when the amount of charge in the energy storage device 222 falls below a threshold value), thereby preventing the energy storage device 222 from discharging. Additionally, the switch 296 is closed during other times (e.g., when the main power is interrupted and no main power is received at the terminal 298, when the amount of charge in the energy storage device is above a threshold), allowing the energy storage device 222 to release backup power to the light load 229. The switch 296 may be any type of device (e.g., a transistor, a dipole switch, a relay contact) that changes state based on certain conditions. Switch 296 may be the same as or different from switch 294. In certain example embodiments, the switch 296 may be operated (e.g., change from a closed position to an open position, change from an open position to a closed position) based on input from the controller 224.

In this example, the energy storage unit 220 includes two diodes 297. As shown in fig. 2A, one diode 297-1 is disposed between the terminal 298 and the DC-DC converter 291. This diode 297-1 allows the main power flow from the terminal 298 and the DC-DC converter 291, and prevents the power from flowing in the opposite direction. Another diode 297-2 of fig. 2A is disposed between the terminal 298 and the boost converter 292. This diode 297-2 allows standby current to flow from the DC-DC converter 291 to the terminal 298 and prevents power from flowing in the opposite direction. In some cases, one or more other components (e.g., switches, transistors) may be used as an alternative to diode 297 of fig. 2A.

The sensor device 226 (also simply referred to as a sensor) may measure one or more parameters within the lighting circuit 200 and/or in the ambient environment (external to the lighting circuit 200). The sensor device 226 may measure the parameter continuously, periodically, based on the occurrence of an event, based on a command received from the controller 224, randomly, and/or based on some other factor. The parameters measured by the sensor device 226 may be used to determine whether the primary power provided by the rectifier 215 reaches the light module 229. For example, the sensor device 226 may be a light sensor that detects the amount of light emitted by one or more light sources of the light module 229. As another example, the sensor device 226 may be an energy metering device that measures an amount of primary power (e.g., voltage, current, watts) at the output terminals of the rectifier 215.

In some cases, sensor device 226 may measure one or more parameters that are not directly related to the availability of primary power. For example, the sensor device 226 may be an energy metering device that measures the amount of charge in the energy storage device 222. Other parameters that may be measured by the sensor device 226 may include, but are not limited to, temperature, pressure, presence of smoke, movement, amount of ambient light, and vibration. In some cases, the sensor device 226 may be a resistor that generates a signal when current flows through the resistor and/or a voltage is present across the resistor.

In certain example embodiments, as shown in fig. 2B, the controller 224 may include one or more of a plurality of components. Examples of such components may include, but are not limited to, control engine 206, communication module 285, timer 211, power module 212, energy metering module 213, storage 274, hardware processor 221, memory 243, transceiver 223, application interface 227, and optional security module 228. The controller 224 may correspond to the computer system 718 as described below with respect to fig. 7.

The components shown in FIG. 2B are not exhaustive, and in some embodiments, one or more of the components shown in FIG. 2B may not be included in the example controller 224. Any of the components of the example controller 224 may be discrete or combined with one or more other components of the controller 224. Additionally, the inclusion and/or location of one or more components may be different than shown in FIG. 2B. As an example, one or more of the switches (e.g., switch 296) may be part of the controller 224.

In certain example embodiments, the controller 224 performs a variety of functions. For example, the controller 224 may be in communication with (e.g., send instructions to, receive measurements from) the sensor device 226. In this case, the controller 224 may determine whether the main power provided by the rectifier 215 is transmitted to the light module 229 at a given point in time. If not transmitted at a given point in time, controller 224 may control one or more switches (e.g., switch 294, switch 296) to release backup power from one or more of energy storage devices 222 to one or more portions of light module 229. If the transfer is made at a given point in time, the controller 224 may control one or more switches (e.g., switch 294, switch 296) to prevent backup power from flowing from one or more of the energy storage devices 222 to one or more portions of the light module 229.

As another example, controller 224 may determine a charge level of energy storage device 222. In this case, the energy storage unit 220 may include a sensor device 226 that measures the amount of charge in one or more of the energy storage devices 222. The controller 224 may receive the measurements of this sensor device and determine whether the storage level of one or more energy storage devices 222 is within a charge range. If the amount of charge falls below the lower limit of the range (lower threshold), controller 224 may control one or more switches (e.g., switch 294, switch 296) to allow the main power to charge energy storage device 222. Alternatively, if the amount of charge is above the upper limit (upper threshold) of the range, controller 224 may control one or more switches (e.g., switch 294, switch 296) to prevent the primary power from charging energy storage device 222.

In certain example embodiments, the controller 224 may control (e.g., based on default settings, based on measurements of the sensor device 226 using one or more switches (e.g., switch 261, switch 262, switch 263) in the lighting circuit 200) which particular light source arrays (or which particular light sources within a light source array) may be illuminated using the backup power provided by the energy storage unit 220. The controller 224 may also control the intensity of light emitted by the light sources using the backup power for one or more characteristics of the light sources (e.g., mode of operation (e.g., blinking, normally on)), a decrease or increase in the level of power delivered to the light sources (relative to the main power), the color emitted by the light sources, the particular light source receiving the backup power, receiving the backup power). In some cases, the controller 224 may communicate with another controller of another lighting circuit in the system and/or with a network administrator. In this case, the controller 224 may operate (e.g., provide backup power, select a particular light source to receive backup power) based on instructions received from another controller and/or a network administrator.

In certain example embodiments, the controller 224 of the energy storage unit 220 may perform a self-test function (e.g., perform a monthly check on the functionality of one or more of the energy storage devices 222, perform a diagnostic evaluation of one or more components of the energy storage unit (e.g., the sensor device 226)). In this case, the results of these tests may be communicated by controller 224 to a user, a network administrator, another controller of the luminaire, a controller of another luminaire, a supervising entity, and/or some other entity interested in such information. The controller 224 may be autonomous, self-learning, reporting, controlled by a user, controlled by a network administrator, and/or operate in any of a variety of other modes.

In addition to (or instead of) the presence of primary power, the controller 224 of the energy storage unit 220 may distribute backup power from the energy storage device 222 to one or more particular light sources of the light modules 229 based on one or more of a variety of other factors. These other factors may include, but are not limited to, the time of day, the duration of the outage, the specific problem detected by the sensor device 226, and the location at which the sensor device 226 measures the parameter.

When the controller 224 of the energy storage unit 220 releases backup power from one or more of the energy storage devices 222, the backup power may be delivered to some or all of the light sources within the light module 229. For example, as shown in fig. 2A, backup power may be delivered to light source array 240, causing

light sources

241 and 249 to emit light. Depending on the position (e.g., open, closed) of one or more switches (e.g., switch 296) located downstream of the location where the backup power is delivered to the light module 229, one or more other light source arrays (or light sources within a light source array) may also be illuminated by the backup power. As discussed above, the controller 224 of the energy storage unit 220 may indicate the position of any of such switches (e.g., switch 294, switch 296) in the lighting circuit 200.

The energy metering module 213 of the controller 224 may be considered a type of sensor device 226 that monitors conditions within the controller 224. Examples of such conditions may include, but are not limited to, power received by the power module 212, power transmitted by the power module 212, and speed of the hardware processor 221. The energy metering module 213 of the controller 224 measures one or more power components (e.g., current, voltage, resistance, VAR, watts) associated with the controller 224. The energy metering module 213 may include any of a number of measurement devices and related devices, including, but not limited to, a voltmeter, an ammeter, a resistor, a power meter, an ohmmeter, a current transformer, a voltage transformer, and a wire. The energy metering module 213 may measure the power component continuously, periodically, based on the occurrence of an event, based on a command received from the control engine 206, randomly, and/or based on some other factor. The energy metering module 213 and/or other components of the controller 224 may receive power, control, and/or communication signals from the main power, backup power, and/or the power module 212.

The controller 224 of the energy storage unit 220 may interact (e.g., periodically, continuously, randomly) with any one or more components within the lighting circuit 200 (e.g., the control circuit 283) and/or one or more components external to the lighting circuit 200 (e.g., a user, a network administrator). According to one or more example embodiments, the controller 224 may interact with such other components using an application interface 227. In particular, the application interface 227 of the controller 224 receives data (e.g., information, communications, instructions) from and sends data (e.g., information, communications, instructions) to other components of the system.

In certain example embodiments, the controller 224, switches, sensor device 226, user, and/or any other component within the lighting circuit 200 or external to the lighting circuit 200 may use its own system or shared system. Such a system may be or include in the form of an internet-based or intranet-based computer system capable of communicating with various software. The computer system includes any type of computing and/or communication device, including but not limited to a controller 224. Examples of such systems may include, but are not limited to, desktop computers with LAN, WAN, Internet, or intranet access; laptop computers with LAN, WAN, internet or intranet access; a smart phone; a server; a server cluster; android (android) devices (or equivalents), tablet computers; a smart phone; and Personal Digital Assistants (PDAs). Such a system may correspond to the computer system described below with respect to fig. 7.

Further, as discussed above, such systems may have corresponding software (e.g., user software, controller software, LV device software). According to some example embodiments, the software may execute on the same or separate devices, such as servers, mainframes, desktop Personal Computers (PCs), laptops, PDAs, televisions, cable boxes, satellite boxes, kiosks, telephones, mobile phones, or other computing devices, and may be coupled with the wired and/or wireless sections through communication networks, such as the internet, intranets, extranets, Local Area Networks (LANs), Wide Area Networks (WANs), or other network communication methods, and/or communication channels. The software of one system may be part of the software of another system within the system or operate separately but in conjunction with the software of another system within the system.

The controller 224 may include a housing. The housing may include at least one wall forming a cavity. The housing of the controller 224 may be used to at least partially house one or more components of the controller 224 (e.g., the power module 212, the energy metering module 213). For example, controller 224 (in this case including control engine 206, communication module 285, timer 211, storage 274, hardware processor 221, memory 243, transceiver 223, application interface 227, and optional security module 228) may be disposed within a cavity formed by the housing. In alternative embodiments, any one or more of these or other components of the controller 224 may be disposed on and/or remote from the housing.

The store 274 may be a persistent storage device (or collection of devices) that stores software and data used to assist the controller 224 in communicating with one or more other components of the system. In one or more example embodiments, the repository 274 stores protocols 275, algorithms 276, and stored data 277. The protocol 275 may be any procedure (e.g., a series of method steps) followed by the control engine 206 of the controller 224 based on certain conditions at a certain point in time and/or other similar operational procedures. The protocol 275 may include any of a number of communication protocols 275 for transmitting and/or receiving data between the controller 224 and one or more components internal and/or external to the lighting circuit 200.

The protocol 275 may be used for wired and/or wireless communication. Examples of protocols 275 may include, but are not limited to, Modbus, profibus, Ethernet, and fiber optics. One or more of the communication protocols 275 may be a time synchronization protocol. Examples of such time synchronization protocols may include, but are not limited to, the Highway Addressable Remote Transducer (HART) protocol, the wireless HART protocol, and the International Society of Automation (ISA) 100 protocol. In this manner, one or more of the communication protocols 275 may provide a layer of security for data communicated within the lighting circuit 200.

The algorithm 276 may be any formula, logic step, mathematical model (e.g., load prediction model, forwarded energy price model), and/or other suitable manner of manipulating and/or processing data. One or more algorithms 276 may be used for a particular protocol 275. As discussed above, in certain example embodiments, the controller 224 controls one or more of the switches 170. The controller 224 may use the protocol 275, the algorithm 276, and/or the stored data 277 to control the switches (e.g., the switch 294, the switch 263). For example, the protocol 275 may indicate a length of time (e.g., as measured by the timer 211) that the primary power is transmitted to the energy storage device 222.

As another example, the algorithm 276 may be used to determine the operating frequency of one or more switches (e.g., switch 296) in conjunction with measurements taken by one or more sensor devices 226. As another example, the algorithm 276 may be used to optimize a range of charge in the energy storage device 222 to maximize the useful life of the energy storage device 222.

The stored data 277 may be any data associated with the lighting circuit 200 (including any components thereof), any measurements taken by the sensor device 226, times measured by the timer 211, thresholds, current ratings of the energy storage device 222, results of previously run or calculated algorithms 276, and/or any other suitable data. Such data may be any type of data, including, but not limited to, historical data for the lighting circuit 200 (including any components thereof, such as the energy storage device 222), historical data for other energy storage devices that are not part of the lighting circuit 200, calculations, and measurements made by one or more sensors 226. The stored data 277 may be associated with some time measurement, for example, derived from the timer 211.

Examples of the repository 274 may include, but are not limited to, a database (or multiple databases), a file system, a hard drive, flash memory, some other form of solid state data storage, or any suitable combination thereof. According to some example embodiments, the repository 274 may be located on multiple physical machines, each storing all or a portion of the protocols 275, algorithms 276, and/or stored data 277. Each storage unit or device may be physically located in the same or different geographic locations.

The repository 274 is operatively connected to the control engine 206. In one or more example embodiments, the control engine 206 includes the functionality of one or more other components in the system. More specifically, the control engine 206 sends information to the repository 274 and/or receives information from the repository 274 to communicate with one or more other components in the system. As discussed below, in certain example embodiments, the storage repository 274 is also operably connected to the communication module 285.

In certain example embodiments, the control engine 206 of the controller 224 compares the readings taken by the energy metering module 213 to a threshold, operates one or more switches (e.g., switch 294, switch 296), controls charging of the energy storage device 222, and releases backup power from the energy storage device 222 to the light module 229. The control engine 206 of the controller 224 may manage the light modules 229 being serviced by the energy storage unit 220 (e.g., using the switch 261, the switch 262, and the switch 263) such that the reserve LV signal generated by the energy storage device 222 of the energy storage unit 220 is effectively provided to the light modules 229, particularly during long periods of outage when primary power is not available.

In certain example embodiments, the control engine 206 of the controller 224 controls the operation of one or more components of the controller 224 (e.g., the communication module 285, the transceiver 223). For example, the control engine 206 may place the communication module 285 in a "sleep" mode when there is no communication between the controller 224 and another component in the lighting circuit 200, or when the communication between the controller 224 and another component in the lighting circuit 200 follows a conventional mode. In this case, power consumed by the controller 224 is conserved by enabling the communication module 285 only when the communication module 285 is needed.

The control engine 206 may provide control, communication, and/or other similar signals to one or more other components of the lighting circuit 200. Similarly, the control engine 206 may receive control, communication, and/or other similar signals from one or more other components of the lighting circuit 200 (or external thereto in some cases). The control engine 206 may control the energy storage unit 220 or portions thereof (e.g., DC-DC converter 291, boost converter 292) automatically (e.g., based on one or more algorithms 276 stored in the storage library 274) and/or based on control, communication, and/or other like signals received from a controller of another component of the lighting circuit 200. Control engine 206 may include a printed circuit board on which one or more discrete components of hardware processor 221 and/or controller 224 may be located.

In certain example embodiments, the control engine 206 may include an interface that enables the control engine 206 to communicate with one or more components of the controller 224 (e.g., the communication module 285) and/or another component of the lighting circuit 200. For example, if the energy storage unit 220 operates in accordance with IEC standard 62386, the terminal 298 may include a Digital Addressable Lighting Interface (DALI). In this case, the control engine 206 may also include DALI to enable communication with the terminal 298 within the energy storage unit 220. Such an interface may operate in conjunction with or independent of a communication protocol used to communicate between the controller 224 and another component of the system.

The control engine 206 may operate in real time. In other words, the control engine 206 of the controller 224 may process, send, and/or receive communications with another component of the lighting circuit 200 when any change (e.g., discrete change, continuous change) occurs within the system. Further, the control engine 206 of the controller 224 may substantially simultaneously control the energy storage unit 220 and/or one or more other components in the system based on such changes.

In addition, the control engine 206 of the controller 224 may continuously perform one or more of its functions. For example, the control engine 206 may operate one or more of the switches (e.g., switch 294) based on measurements taken by the energy metering module 213.

In some cases, the switch (e.g., switch 296) is not operated, or in addition to operating the switch, the controller 224 may control the boost converter 292 and/or the DC-DC converter 291. In other words, as an example, to reduce the amount of primary power fed to the energy storage device 222, the control engine 206 may adjust the DC-DC converter 291 accordingly. As another example, the control engine 206 may send a control signal to a switch (e.g., switch 263) to increase or eliminate the load in the light module 229, thereby changing the amount of backup power required by the light module 229 from the energy storage unit 220.

In certain example embodiments, control engine 206 of controller 224 may operate (e.g., operate in real-time) based on instructions received from a user, changes in primary power received by energy storage unit 220, based on the efficiency of energy storage device 222, and/or based on some other factor. Additionally, the control engine 206 (or other portion of the controller 224) may include a timer 211. In this case, timer 211 may measure one or more time elements, including (but not limited to) clock time and time period. In addition to the clock function, the timer 211 may also include a calendar.

The control engine 206 (or other components of the controller 224) may also include one or more hardware and/or software architecture components to perform its functions. Such components may include, but are not limited to, universal asynchronous receiver/transmitter (UART), universal synchronous receiver/transmitter (USRT), Serial Peripheral Interface (SPI), Direct Attachment Capability (DAC) storage, analog-to-digital converter, inter-integrated circuit (I)²C) And a Pulse Width Modulator (PWM).

In certain example embodiments, the communication module 285 of the controller 224 determines and implements a communication protocol (e.g., the protocol 275 from the repository 274) used when the control engine 206 communicates with (e.g., sends signals to, receives signals from) another component in the lighting circuit 200. In some cases, the communication module 285 accesses the protocols 275 to determine which communication protocol is within the capabilities of the recipient of the communication sent by the control engine 206. Additionally, the communication module 285 may interpret the communication protocol of the communications received by the controller 224 so that the control engine 206 may interpret the communications.

Communication module 285 may send data directly to repository 274 and/or retrieve data directly from repository 274. Alternatively, control engine 206 may facilitate data transfer between communication module 285 and storage 274. The communication module 285 may also provide encryption for data sent by the controller 224 and decryption for data received by the controller 224. The communication module 285 may also provide one or more of a number of other services related to data sent from the controller 224 and received by the controller 224. Such services may include, but are not limited to, data packet routing information and procedures to be followed in the event of data interruption.

The power module 212 of the controller 224 provides power to one or more other components of the controller 224 (e.g., the timer 211, the control engine 206). In certain example embodiments, power module 212 receives primary and or backup power for operation. The power module 212 may include one or more of a plurality of single or plurality of discrete components (e.g., transistors, diodes, resistors) and/or a microprocessor. The power module 212 may include a printed circuit board on which the microprocessor and/or one or more discrete components are positioned. In some cases, the power module 212 may include one or more components that allow the power module 212 to measure one or more power elements (e.g., voltage, current) communicated to the power module 212 and/or transmitted from the power module 212.

The power module 212 may include one or more components (e.g., transformers, diode bridges, inverters, converters) that receive power from a source (e.g., rectifier 215, energy storage device 222) (e.g., via a cable) and generate power of a type (e.g., alternating current, direct current) and level (e.g., 12V, 24V, 470V) that may be used by other components of the controller 224. The power module 212 may use a closed control loop to maintain a pre-configured voltage or current with tight tolerances at the output. The power module 212 may also protect the rest of the electronic device (e.g., hardware processor 221, transceiver 223) from surges generated in the line. Additionally or alternatively, the power module 212 itself may be a power source to provide signals to other components of the controller 224. For example, the power module 212 may be or include a battery. As another example, the power module 212 may be a local photovoltaic power generation system.

According to one or more example embodiments, the hardware processor 221 of the controller 224 executes software. In particular, the hardware processor 221 may execute software on the control engine 206 or any other portion of the controller 224, as well as software used by any other component of the lighting circuit 200. In one or more example embodiments, the hardware processor 221 may be an integrated circuit, a central processing unit, a multi-core processing chip, a multi-chip module including multiple multi-core processing chips, or other hardware processor. Hardware processor 221 is also known by other names, including (but not limited to) computer processors, microprocessors, and multi-core processors.

In one or more example embodiments, hardware processor 221 executes software instructions stored in memory 243. Memory 243 includes one or more caches, main memory, and/or any other suitable type of memory. According to some example embodiments, the memory 243 is discretely located within the controller 224 relative to the hardware processor 221. In some configurations, the memory 243 may be integrated with the hardware processor 221. In certain example embodiments, the controller 224 does not include the hardware processor 221. In this case, as an example, the controller 224 may include one or more FPGAs, one or more IGBTs, and/or one or more ICs. The use of FPGAs, IGBTs, ICs, and/or other similar devices known in the art allows the controller 224 (or portions thereof) to be programmable and function according to certain logic rules and thresholds without the use of a hardware processor. Alternatively, FPGAs, IGBTs, ICs, and/or the like may be used in conjunction with one or more hardware processors 221.

The transceiver 223 of the controller 224 may send and/or receive control and/or communication signals. In particular, the transceiver 223 may be used to communicate data between the controller 224 and other components of the lighting circuit 200. The transceiver 223 may use wired and/or wireless technology. The transceiver 223 may be configured such that control and/or communication signals transmitted and/or received by the transceiver 223 may be received and/or transmitted by another transceiver that is part of another component of the lighting circuit 200.

When transceiver 223 uses wireless technology, transceiver 223 may use any type of wireless technology to transmit and receive signals. Such wireless technologies may include, but are not limited to, Wi-Fi, visible light communication, cellular networking, and bluetooth. Transceiver 223 may use one or more of any number of suitable communication protocols (e.g., ISA100, HART) in sending and/or receiving signals. Such communication protocols may be indicated by communication module 285. In addition, any transceiver information for other components in the system may be stored in the repository 274.

Optionally, in one or more example embodiments, a security module 228 protects interactions between the controller 224 and other components of the system. More specifically, the security module 228 authenticates communications from the software based on a security key that verifies the identity of the source of the communications. For example, the user software may be associated with a security key that enables the user's software to interact with the controller 224. Further, in some example embodiments, the security module 228 may restrict receipt of, request for, and/or access to information.

As described above, the configuration of the various light source arrays within the light module of the lighting circuit may vary. Additionally or alternatively, any additional components of the lighting circuit (e.g., switches) may have different configurations. Further, the example energy storage unit may be coupled to the light module (or portion thereof) in various ways. Fig. 3-6 illustrate different examples of how example lighting circuits may be configured. Unless specifically discussed below, any portion of the lighting circuit in fig. 3-6 not discussed below is substantially similar to the corresponding portion described above with respect to the lighting circuit 200 of fig. 2A.

Fig. 3 shows a lighting circuit 300 in which a light module 329 has three arrays of light sources (light source array 330, light source array 340, and light source array 350) coupled in series. The light source array 330 includes a light source 331, a light source 332, and a light source 339 coupled in series. The light source array 340 includes

light sources

341, 342, and 349 coupled in series. The light source array 350 includes

light sources

351, 352, and 359 coupled in series. Unlike the lighting circuit 200 of fig. 2, the lighting circuit 300 of fig. 3 does not include any diodes or capacitors.

There are three switches in the lighting circuit 300 of fig. 3. Switch 361 is coupled in parallel with light source array 330 and light source array 340. The switch 362 is coupled in parallel with the array of light sources 340. The switch 363 is coupled in parallel with the light source array 350. The energy storage unit 320 is coupled in parallel with the light source array 340. In this case, the energy storage unit 320 of the lighting circuit 300 of fig. 3 is substantially similar to the energy storage unit 220 described above with respect to fig. 2.

Fig. 4 shows a lighting circuit 400 in which a light module 429 has three light source arrays (light source array 430, light source array 440, and light source array 450) coupled in series. The light source array 430 includes a light source 431, a light source 432, and a light source 439 coupled in series. Light source array 440 includes

light sources

441, 442, and 449 coupled in series. Light source array 450 includes light source 451, light source 452, and light source 459 coupled in series. As with the lighting circuit 300 of fig. 3, the lighting circuit 400 of fig. 4 does not include any diodes or capacitors.

There are three switches in the lighting circuit 400 of fig. 4. Switch 461 is coupled in parallel with light source array 430, light source array 440, and light source array 450. Switch 462 is coupled in parallel with light source array 440 and light source array 450. Switch 463 is coupled in parallel with light source array 450. The energy storage unit 420 is coupled in parallel with the light source array 450. In this case, the energy storage unit 420 of the lighting circuit 400 of fig. 4 is substantially similar to the energy storage unit 220 described above with respect to fig. 2.

Fig. 5 shows a lighting circuit 500 in which a light module 529 has three arrays of light sources (light source array 530, light source array 540, and light source array 550) coupled in series. The light source array 530 includes

light sources

531, 532, and 539 coupled in series. The light source array 540 includes

light sources

541, 542, and 549 coupled in series. Light source array 550 includes

light sources

551, 552, and 559 coupled in series. As with the lighting circuit 300 of fig. 3, the lighting circuit 500 of fig. 5 does not include any diodes or capacitors.

There are three switches in the lighting circuit 500 of fig. 5. Switch 563 is coupled in parallel with light source array 530, light source array 540, and light source array 550. Switch 562 is coupled in parallel with light source array 530 and light source array 540. The switch 561 is coupled in parallel with the light source array 530. The energy storage unit 520 is coupled in parallel with the light source array 530 and the light source array 540. In this case, the energy storage unit 520 of the lighting circuit 500 of fig. 5 is substantially similar to the energy storage unit 220 described above with respect to fig. 2.

Fig. 6 shows a lighting circuit 600 in which a light module 629 has three light source arrays (light source array 630, light source array 640, and light source array 650) coupled in series. Light source array 630 includes

light sources

631, 632, 633, and 639 coupled in series. The light source array 640 includes a light source 641 and a light source 649 coupled in series. The light source array 650 includes light sources 221.

As with the lighting circuit 200 of fig. 2, the lighting circuit 600 of fig. 6 includes three diodes or capacitors coupled in series and parallel, respectively, with respect to each of the three light source arrays. There are three switches in the lighting circuit 600 of fig. 6. Switch 661 is coupled in parallel with light source array 630. Switch 662 is coupled in parallel with light source array 540. The switch 663 is coupled in parallel with the array of light sources 650.

The energy storage unit 620 of fig. 6 has two controllers 624 (controller 624-1 and controller 624-2 in this example), where each controller 624 includes a single unidirectional DC-DC converter (or alternatively, a single controller having two different DC-DC converters). The controller 624-1 of the energy storage unit 620 is coupled in parallel with the light source array 640. The controller 624-1 receives the main power provided by the rectifier 615, converts the main power in a DC-DC converter (e.g., similar to the DC-DC converter 291 of fig. 2A), and sends the converted main power to the one or more energy storage devices 622. The controller 624-2 of the energy storage unit 620 is coupled in parallel with the light source 639 of the light source array 630, all light sources of the light source array 640, and all light sources of the light source array 650. The controller 624-2 releases the backup power stored in the energy storage device 622, converts the backup power using a DC-DC converter (e.g., similar to the boost converter 292 of fig. 2A), and transmits the converted backup power to the light sources 639 of the light source array 630, one or more of the light sources of the light source array 640, and/or the light sources 651 of the light source array 650.

In other words, energy storage 622 is charged from one portion of light module 629 and backup power released by energy storage 622 is transferred to another portion of light module 629. Thus, two different DC-DC converters are used, one for each controller 624. Additionally, the sensor device 626 and the energy storage device 622 of the energy storage unit 620 of the lighting circuit 600 of fig. 6 are substantially similar to the sensor device 226 and the energy storage device 222 of the energy storage unit 220 described above with respect to fig. 2A.

As discussed above, the computing device 718 may be used to perform one or more of the functions performed by any of the components of the example systems described herein (e.g., the controller 224). An example of a computing device 718 is shown in fig. 5. Computing device 718 implements one or more of the various techniques described herein, and it represents, in whole or in part, elements described herein in accordance with certain example embodiments. Computing device 718 is one example of a computing device and is not intended to suggest any limitation as to the scope of use or functionality of the computing device and/or its possible architecture. Neither should the computing device 718 be interpreted as having any dependency or requirement relating to any one or combination of components illustrated in the example computing device 718.

Computing device 718 includes one or more processors or processing units 714, one or more memory/storage components 719, one or more input/output (I/O) devices 716, and a bus 717 that allows the various components and devices to communicate with each other. The bus 717 represents one or more of any of several types of bus structures, including a memory bus or memory controller, a peripheral bus, an accelerated graphics port, and a processor or local bus using any of a variety of bus architectures. Bus 717 includes wired and/or wireless buses.

Memory/storage component 719 represents one or more computer storage media. Memory/storage component 719 includes volatile media (e.g., Random Access Memory (RAM)) and/or nonvolatile media (e.g., Read Only Memory (ROM), flash memory, optical disks, magnetic disks, and so forth). Memory/storage component 719 includes fixed media (e.g., RAM, ROM, a fixed hard drive, etc.) as well as removable media (e.g., a flash memory drive, a removable hard drive, an optical disk, and so forth).

One or more I/O devices 716 allow a client, utility, or other user to enter commands and information to computing device 718, and also allow information to be presented to the client, utility, or other user and/or other components or devices. Examples of input devices include, but are not limited to, a keyboard, a cursor control device (e.g., a mouse), a microphone, and a scanner. Examples of output devices include, but are not limited to, display devices (e.g., a monitor or projector), speakers, printers, and network cards.

Various techniques are described herein in the general context of software or program modules. Generally, software includes routines, programs, objects, components, data structures, etc. that perform particular tasks or implement particular abstract data types. An implementation of these modules and techniques are stored on or transmitted across some form of computer readable media. Computer-readable media are any available non-transitory or non-transitory media that can be accessed by a computing device. By way of example, and not limitation, computer-readable media comprise "computer storage media".

"computer storage media" and "computer-readable media" include volatile and nonvolatile, removable and non-removable media implemented in any method or technology for storage of information such as computer-readable instructions, data structures, program modules or other data. Computer storage media includes, but is not limited to, computer recordable media such as RAM, ROM, EEPROM, flash memory or other memory technology, CD-ROM, Digital Versatile Disks (DVD) or other optical storage, magnetic cassettes, magnetic tape, magnetic disk storage or other magnetic storage devices, or any other medium which can be used to store the desired information and which can be accessed by a computer.

According to some example embodiments, the computer device 718 is connected to a network (not shown) (e.g., a Local Area Network (LAN), a Wide Area Network (WAN), such as the internet, or any other similar type of network) through a network interface connection (not shown). Those skilled in the art will appreciate that in other example embodiments, many different types of computer systems exist (e.g., desktop computers, laptop computers, personal media devices, mobile devices such as cellular telephones or personal digital assistants, or any other computing system capable of executing computer-readable instructions), and that the aforementioned input and output devices take other forms, now known or later developed. Generally speaking, the computer system 718 includes at least the minimum processing, input, and/or output devices necessary to practice one or more embodiments.

Moreover, those skilled in the art will appreciate that in certain example embodiments, one or more elements of the above-described computer device 718 are located at a remote location and connected to the other elements over a network. Further, one or more embodiments are implemented on a distributed system having one or more nodes, where each portion of the implementation (e.g., controller 224) is located on a different node within the distributed system. In one or more embodiments, the node corresponds to a computer system. Alternatively, in some example embodiments, the node corresponds to a processor with associated physical memory. In some example embodiments, a node may also correspond to a processor with shared memory and/or resources.

Example embodiments may be used in circuitry of a light fixture. Such circuitry may include an energy storage unit, wherein the energy storage unit may include at least one switch controlled by at least one controller, wherein the at least one switch regulates the flow of primary power (from a power source) and backup power (from at least one energy storage device of the energy storage unit) into and out of the energy storage unit. In some cases, such a circuit may include at least one first light source and at least one second light source, where the at least one first light source and the at least one second light source are connected in series with respect to one another. Alternatively, the at least one first light source and the at least one second light source are connected in parallel with respect to each other. Moreover, in some cases, the energy storage unit of such a circuit may further include at least one controller coupled to the sensor device and at least one energy storage device of the energy storage unit, wherein the at least one controller controls the primary power delivered to the at least one energy storage device.

Example embodiments may be used in lighting circuits that include a power supply that provides primary power. Such a lighting circuit may further comprise a drive circuit coupled to the power source, wherein the drive circuit receives the primary power and generates the primary power, wherein the drive circuit comprises a rectifier. Such a lighting circuit may further comprise at least one array of light sources coupled to the driving circuit, wherein the at least one array of light sources comprises at least one first light source emitting light using a primary power received from the driving circuit. Such a lighting circuit may further comprise an energy storage unit electrically coupled in parallel with the at least one array of light sources, wherein the energy storage unit comprises at least one energy storage device, wherein the at least one energy storage device is charged using the primary power. The at least one first light source array in such a light circuit may receive backup power from the energy storage unit when the drive circuit stops providing the main power.

In one or more example embodiments, the example lighting circuits described herein have an energy storage unit whose energy storage device is charged using the main power provided by a rectifier, rather than using a power supply as currently used in the art. Example embodiments may be used to increase the utilization of an energy storage unit in view of charging of the energy storage devices within the energy storage unit and in view of the efficient distribution of backup power by the energy storage unit.

Example embodiments also provide for increased flexibility in using light sources within a luminaire. This flexibility may enhance reliability and security for the user. Furthermore, example embodiments eliminate the need for energy transfer devices (e.g., AC-DC converters), which reduces materials and costs. The absence of an AC-DC converter also allows example embodiments to operate in higher temperature applications. Furthermore, the absence of an AC-DC converter reduces the physical profile of the lighting device, which enables a more aesthetic and/or streamlined design.

While the embodiments described herein have been derived with reference to example embodiments, those skilled in the art will appreciate that various modifications are well within the scope and spirit of the disclosure. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the example embodiments described herein are not limited to any particular discussed application, and that the embodiments described herein are illustrative and not limiting. From the description of the example embodiments, equivalents of the elements shown therein will appear to those skilled in the art, and ways of constructing other embodiments using the disclosure will appear to practitioners skilled in the art. Accordingly, the scope of the invention is not limited in this respect.

Claims

1. A circuit for a light fixture, the circuit comprising:

a power supply providing primary power, wherein the power supply includes a rectifier;

a light module including at least one first light source and coupled to the power supply, wherein the at least one light source emits light when the light module receives the primary power; and

an energy storage unit comprising at least one energy storage device, wherein the energy storage unit and the at least one first light source coupled in parallel with each other are coupled in series with the power supply, wherein the at least one energy storage device is charged using the primary power,

wherein the at least one first light source receives backup power from the energy storage unit when the power supply stops providing the primary power.

2. The circuit of claim 1, wherein the energy storage unit further comprises a sensor device, wherein the sensor device detects when the power supply stops providing the primary power.

3. The circuit of claim 2, wherein the sensor device detects an amount of primary power flowing to the at least one first light source.

4. The circuit of claim 2, wherein the sensor device detects an amount of light emitted by the at least one first light source.

5. The circuit of claim 2, wherein the energy storage unit further includes at least one controller coupled to the sensor device and the energy storage device, wherein the at least one controller releases the backup power from the at least one energy storage device when the sensor device detects that the power supply stops providing the main power.

6. The circuit of claim 5, wherein the light module further comprises at least one second light source coupled to the at least one first light source, wherein the at least one second light source emits light by the main power delivered by the power supply.

7. The circuit of claim 6, wherein the at least one controller directs the backup power from the at least one energy storage device to the at least one first light source without directing the backup power from the at least one energy storage device to the at least one second light source.

8. The circuit of claim 6, wherein the at least one controller directs the backup power from the at least one energy storage device to the at least one first light source and the at least one second light source.

9. The circuit of claim 1, wherein the at least one first light source comprises at least one Light Emitting Diode (LED).

10. The circuit of claim 1, wherein the at least one first light source is in a first array of light sources.

11. The circuit of claim 1, wherein the primary power is Direct Current (DC) power.

12. The circuit of claim 11, wherein the backup power is DC power.

13. The circuit of claim 12, wherein the energy storage unit further comprises at least one DC-DC converter disposed between the at least one energy storage device and the light module.

14. The circuit of claim 13, wherein the at least one DC-DC converter includes a DC-DC converter disposed between the light module and the at least one energy storage device, wherein the DC-DC converter manipulates the primary power for storage by the at least one energy storage device.

15. The circuit of claim 13, wherein the at least one DC-DC converter includes a boost converter disposed between the at least one energy storage device and the light module, wherein the boost converter manipulates the backup power for use by the light module.